Fish oil and omega-3 are often discussed as though they are the same quantity, but a label may be describing different things. Understanding the wording helps you compare products more accurately.
What omega-3 means
Omega-3 is a family of fatty acids. EPA and DHA are two long-chain omega-3 fatty acids commonly associated with marine oils. A product may also contain other omega-3 fatty acids, depending on its source.
Fish oil amount is not the EPA and DHA amount
A statement such as “150 mg fish oil powder” describes the weight of that ingredient, not necessarily 150 mg of omega-3, EPA or DHA. Fish oil powders can also contain carriers used to make the oil suitable for a dry product. Unless EPA and DHA are separately declared, their amounts should not be assumed.
Compare like with like: fish oil powder, total omega-3, EPA and DHA are different label declarations.
Questions to ask when comparing products
- Does the label state fish oil, fish oil powder or a specific omega-3 amount?
- Are EPA and DHA declared separately?
- Are the figures shown per unit or for the complete daily serving?
- Does the serving change with body weight?
- Is the product intended for your dog’s life stage?
Where omega-3 may fit
Marine omega-3 fatty acids are used in canine diets and supplements for several nutritional purposes. The appropriate source and amount depend on the dog, the rest of the diet and the intended use. More is not automatically better.
Fish oil can add fat and energy to the diet and may not be appropriate in every situation. Ask your vet before adding a separate fish-oil product if your dog has a health condition, takes medication, receives a therapeutic diet or already gets omega-3 from another source.
Reading the Systemavit declaration
Hip & Joint Complete declares fish oil powder at 150 mg per chew. Dogs weighing 25 kg or more receive two chews, so their complete daily serving contains 300 mg of fish oil powder. These are not declared amounts of total omega-3, EPA or DHA.
That distinction is important: transparent labelling should help you understand what is known without implying a more specific fatty-acid amount than the product declares.
